In Italy there is a famous wine region known as Tuscany where some of the best reds come from. The region has been famous for it’s wine since well back into the middle ages. Tradition combined with modern technology makes for a wonderfully smooth wine that is well known throughout the world. Their grapes have been refined and perfected for centuries and will only flourish in the soil and climate specific to the area. With the perfected indigenous grapes and the traditional attitude, these wines cannot be beat.
One of the most famous wines from Tuscany is Chianti. Chianti is a bold red wine, strong and fruity. It is one of the most famous for the region and is by far the most traditional. It used to be bottled and enclosed in a straw basket. It’s primary use was as a dinner beverage with seasoned meats and red sauce suppers. Suitors used to present this wine to the object of their affections during a romantic meal. The basket and the wine’s primary use are both part of history. Now-a-days this wine is bottled in a standard bottle and enjoyed by all, not just lovers.
The grapes used in Chianti are Sangiovese and Canaiolo. The Chianti grapes are late maturing grapes, making them sweeter than most. They are hard to grow since they are susceptible to dampness and elevations higher than 1500 feet. These grapes are almost specifically grown in the Tuscany region. They produce a nice medium to full bodied wine with flavors ranging from cinnamon and vanilla to cherry and plum.
Back in the 15th century a Chianti wine was a white wine, but it eventually evolved into a red. As close in history as the 1960’s most Chianti wines were allowed to have at least 30% white wine grapes used in the wine making. Recently these regulations have tightened, making it difficult to achieve the same quality. Chianti has accomplished this feat miraculously. Chianti wines are versatile and can go with wide variety of foods.
The Chianti Classico is one of the most popular Tuscan wines. It tastes of wild fruits and woody tones and wonderfully balanced. The dazzling red color is pleasing to look at and makes a brilliant addition to a lovers’ meal, but it isn’t just for lovers. This gorgeous and delicious wine is enjoyed by all.